What the Stewart River offers anglers

The Stewart River is a short, fast-moving stream that drains into Lake Superior just north of Two Harbors, and it holds walleye, northern pike, and brook trout in a setting that feels wilder than most Minnesota trout water. The river runs cold year-round—fed by springs and groundwater rather than snowmelt alone—which keeps fish active even when other streams slow down in summer. The character changes dramatically from the upper reaches (narrow, rocky, pocket water) to the lower mile (wider, deeper, slower) where it meets Superior's influence.

What makes the Stewart different from typical North Shore streams is its accessibility to pike and walleye anglers. Most Superior tributaries are trout-only or trout-dominated, but the Stewart's lower section and the pool just above the mouth hold walleye in spring and fall, and pike year-round. The upper river is tighter, colder, and better suited to small streamers and nymphs, but even there you'll find walleye in deeper holes during low-light hours.

Key Takeaways

  • The Stewart River holds walleye, pike, and brook trout in different sections, so your target species and season determine which stretch to fish and what gear to bring.
  • Spring and fall are peak walleye seasons in the lower river and mouth pool; summer is better for pike and trout in the upper reaches.
  • Access is limited to a few pull-offs along Highway 61 and a small parking area near the mouth; the river is short enough to fish thoroughly in a half-day.
  • Water levels rise after rain and can make the lower river unfishable for a day or two; check recent weather before driving out.
  • No special restrictions apply to the Stewart itself, but you must follow Minnesota's general walleye, pike, and trout seasons and bag limits.

Lower river and mouth pool — walleye and pike water

The final mile of the Stewart, from the Highway 61 bridge downstream to Lake Superior, is where most walleye and pike fishing happens. The mouth pool—a deeper, slower section where the river widens before entering Superior—holds walleye in spring (April through May) and again in fall (September through October). Pike are present year-round but most active in spring and fall as well.

Walleye in the mouth pool respond to live bait (shiners or chubs) fished on a slip sinker rig in 6 to 12 feet of water, or to small jigs tipped with minnow. Fish the deeper outside bends and the transition zone where current slows. Early morning and evening are most productive, but walleye will bite throughout the day if the light is low or the water is stained. Pike prefer larger baits and will take a 4- to 6-inch sucker or a large streamer fly; cast along the deeper banks and near any submerged wood.

Access to the lower river is via a small parking area on the north side of Highway 61, just before the bridge. The walk to the mouth is short and the bank is fishable, though slippery when wet. Water level matters here more than anywhere else on the Stewart—heavy rain can turn the lower section into a fast, turbid run that's difficult to fish for a day or two.

Upper river — trout and small-water tactics

Above the Highway 61 bridge, the Stewart narrows into classic North Shore pocket water: rocky, cold, fast-moving, and best fished with a fly rod or ultralight spinning gear. Brook trout are the primary target, with occasional walleye in the deeper holes. The water is shallow enough that stealth matters more than anywhere else on the river—fish spook easily in clear water.

Fly fishing is the most effective approach here. Small streamers (size 6 to 10) in black, olive, or white work well, as do nymphs fished tight to the bottom in deeper pockets. Spin anglers should use 1/16- to 1/8-ounce jigs with small soft plastics or live shiners. The current is strong enough that you can cover water quickly, but fish are concentrated in specific spots: behind large rocks, in the deeper slots between shallows, and at the head of small pools.

Access to the upper river is limited. There are a few pull-offs along Highway 61 where you can park and walk down to the water, but the best sections require a short hike. The river is small enough that you can fish a mile of it in two or three hours, so plan accordingly. Summer is the best season for upper-river trout, when the water is clearest and the air temperature makes wading comfortable.

Seasonal patterns and timing

Spring (April through May) is prime time for walleye in the mouth pool and lower river. Walleye move into the Stewart to spawn, and they're aggressive and concentrated. Water levels are typically higher due to snowmelt, which can make some sections unfishable, but the lower river usually remains accessible. Trout in the upper river are also active in spring, though the water is colder and faster.

Summer (June through August) shifts the focus to pike and trout. Walleye move back into Lake Superior or into the deepest holes, where they're harder to find. Pike remain active throughout the day, especially in low-light conditions. Upper-river trout are most active early and late in the day; midday fishing is slow. Water levels drop as snowmelt ends, making the river easier to wade and more pleasant to fish.

Fall (September through October) brings walleye back into the Stewart as they prepare to move offshore for winter. The mouth pool and lower river are excellent again. Pike are also aggressive in fall. Upper-river trout fishing remains steady. Water temperatures are cool, which keeps fish active all day. By late October, water levels can drop significantly, and some sections may become too shallow to fish effectively.

Winter (November through March) closes most of the Stewart to fishing. The river freezes, and access is difficult. Some anglers fish the mouth pool through the ice, but this requires local knowledge and caution. Most anglers focus on other Superior tributaries or move to inland lakes during winter.

Gear and tackle recommendations

For walleye and pike in the lower river, bring a medium-action spinning rod (6 to 6.5 feet) with 8- to 10-pound monofilament or braided line. Slip sinker rigs, jigs, and live bait are your primary tools. A small tackle box with assorted jigs (1/8 to 1/4 ounce), hooks, and sinkers is enough. For pike, consider a larger rod and heavier line (10 to 12 pounds) if you expect to tangle with bigger fish.

For upper-river trout, a 5- to 6-weight fly rod is ideal, though a 4-weight will work if you're comfortable with it. Bring a selection of small streamers and nymphs, and a floating line for most conditions. Spin anglers should use an ultralight rod (5 to 5.5 feet) with 4- to 6-pound line and small jigs or spinners. Wading boots with good grip are essential—the rocks are slippery and the current is strong.

Water temperature varies from the upper river (often 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit even in summer) to the mouth pool (50 to 60 degrees). Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket. The Stewart is exposed to wind and weather, and conditions can change quickly.

Rules, seasons, and what to know before you go

The Stewart River follows Minnesota's statewide walleye, pike, and trout seasons and bag limits. There are no special restrictions specific to the Stewart. Walleye season opens in May and closes in February; pike season is year-round; brook trout season runs from January through September. Check the current Minnesota fishing regulations before you fish—seasons and limits can change year to year.

A Minnesota fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website, at any sporting goods store, or at the Two Harbors visitor center. A trout stamp is required if you plan to fish for trout.

The Stewart is a small river, and it can become crowded during peak walleye season (spring and fall). Weekday fishing is usually quieter than weekends. The river is also popular with hikers and sightseers, especially near the mouth, so be prepared to share the space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the Stewart year-round?

Walleye and pike seasons follow statewide rules, so yes, you can fish for pike year-round and walleye from May through February. Trout season runs January through September. Winter access is difficult due to ice and snow, so most anglers fish the Stewart from spring through fall.

What's the best time to catch walleye in the Stewart?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are peak walleye seasons. Walleye move into the river to spawn in spring and to feed before moving offshore in fall. The mouth pool and lower river are your best bets during these windows.

Do I need a boat to fish the Stewart?

No. The Stewart is a small stream, and all the best fishing is accessible from the bank. Wading is possible in most sections, and the river is short enough to fish thoroughly on foot. A boat is not practical and not necessary.

What should I do if the water is high and muddy?

High water after rain makes the lower river difficult to fish for a day or two. The upper river clears faster because it's smaller and colder. If conditions are poor, wait a day or two for the water to drop and clear, or fish the upper reaches where the water may be clearer sooner.

Are there other fish in the Stewart besides walleye, pike, and trout?

The Stewart occasionally holds lake trout and splake in the mouth pool, especially in spring and fall. These are bonus fish—not the primary target—but worth keeping an eye out for. Whitefish are also present but rarely caught by anglers.